Release direct-downloads early!

[Doug]

EA should whine less and just release Spore already so I can wash my hands of the company. And I know this is unreasonable, but why can't I use my Digital Download yet? Come on, 6 days won't make a different to your massive profits. Plus, its entirely possible someone will crack it as is (assuming EA were silly enough to include the .exe in the packages).

What would be great also is if they abandoned the EA downloader and used something that worked (i.e. Steam or Impulse). In find it fustraighting that my electronic wizzy copy won't unlock because EA want to ship the slow-moving physical copies. I'm not so busy this week, but will be next, and won't have as much free time.

So, in general, what do you think? Should companys release games to be downloaded AND used as soon as the 'Gold' is ready or not?

 

[mipegg]

No, there is business sense for them to not release early. The fact is having the files on your computer but not being able to use them builds suspense and excitement about the game. That can often lead to you spouting about to to other people who are possible not sure about buying it which then makes them more money.

Aren't physical copies also more expensive? I know I would go for the cheap option every time, especially if it came early.

 

[Doug]

Physical copies are alittle more expensive to the customer, yes. BUT at the same time, require being transported (i.e. Plane, train, lorry) to individual stores, hence adding a layer of overhead to the system. Further, the physical DVDs and cases have to be made/purchased.

With direct downloads, the main servers are the only overhead, hence why the copies their are cheaper.

I can't say for certain, but I suspect that direct download editions are alittle more profitable to companies per 'unit'.